State issues marlin warning for Miami-Dade, Collier

TALLAHASSEE (AP) -- A do-not-eat warning for marlin has been issued for Miami-Dade and Collier counties following outbreaks of scombroid fish poisoning, the state health department said Sunday.

The agency recommends that consumers in the two counties avoid eating marlin purchased from importer Matica Inc. on or after April 15 because it is believed to be spoiled.

Matica purchased more than 1,000 pounds of marlin fillets from a company in Costa Rica and sold them to the following distributors and customers: Collins Fish and Seafood, Crazy Tuna Inc., Anita Cruz Seafood and Sea Bass.

State agencies have tracked and removed about 90 percent of the shipment, the health department said.

Scombroid fish poisoning occurs when people eat spoiled fish containing high levels of histamine. Consuming the spoiled fish can cause a tingling or burning sensation in the mouth, a rash on the upper body and a drop in blood pressure. Headaches and itching of the skin also could be encountered.